U.S. patent application number 10/601306 was filed with the patent office on 2004-07-08 for flat section of the outer skin of the bodywork of a motor vehicle.
This patent application is currently assigned to Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft. Invention is credited to Bangle, Christopher, Bischoff, Christian, Greco, Mario, Haumayr, Werner, Helm, Detlef, Koop, Bjoern, Krieger, John, Kruse, Klaudia, Lancier, Sven, Mehn, Reinhard, Meusel, Martin, Neureiter, Alfred, Nurtsch, Bernd, Pardo, Fernando, Pistorius, Edwin, Pulz, Helmut, Ratz, Peter, Ringer, Juergen, Schaefer, Daniel, Schroeder, Silke, Schwarz, Christine, Scully, Michael, Von Schuttenbach, Andreas, Von Schuttenbach, Raphael, Warming, Anders, Weiss, Verena.
Application Number | 20040130182 10/601306 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56290226 |
Filed Date | 2004-07-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040130182 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bangle, Christopher ; et
al. |
July 8, 2004 |
Flat section of the outer skin of the bodywork of a motor
vehicle
Abstract
An at least partially moveable motor-vehicle outer skin is
already known per se. An actuator formed of a polymer and/or
ion-exchanging and/or other material exhibiting various
conformations is provided so that the outer skin can be moved. This
material is moveable as a result of physical or chemical effects.
The novel outer skin of a motor vehicle requires no expensive tools
for the production thereof. The flat section of the outer skin of
the bodywork of a motor vehicle is made of a flexible material. A
flexible material such as material for convertible top covers is
easily moveable yet the surface thereof cannot be increased. This
material is tensed at least over one part of the rib of the motor
vehicle, e.g. over a space frame. At least one mechanically
moveable adjusting element is provided beneath or on top of the
edge of the section enabling the outer skin to be deformed. The
adjusting element is normally connected to the rib of the motor
vehicle.
Inventors: |
Bangle, Christopher;
(Gilching, DE) ; Kruse, Klaudia; (Muenchen,
DE) ; Pardo, Fernando; (Moorpark, CA) ;
Schwarz, Christine; (Muenchen, DE) ; Weiss,
Verena; (Muenchen, DE) ; Mehn, Reinhard;
(Haimhausen, DE) ; Bischoff, Christian; (Gilching,
DE) ; Lancier, Sven; (Muenchen, DE) ; Warming,
Anders; (Malibu, CA) ; Ringer, Juergen; (Au in
der Hallertau, DE) ; Haumayr, Werner; (Muenchen,
DE) ; Pulz, Helmut; (Erding, DE) ; Neureiter,
Alfred; (Karlsfeld, DE) ; Schroeder, Silke;
(Freising, DE) ; Meusel, Martin; (Muenchen,
DE) ; Greco, Mario; (Muenchen, DE) ;
Pistorius, Edwin; (Olching, DE) ; Von Schuttenbach,
Raphael; (Ingolstadt, DE) ; Von Schuttenbach,
Andreas; (Ingolstadt, DE) ; Ratz, Peter;
(Herrsching, DE) ; Koop, Bjoern; (Starnberg,
DE) ; Helm, Detlef; (Hilgertshausen, DE) ;
Nurtsch, Bernd; (Gars, DE) ; Schaefer, Daniel;
(Olching, DE) ; Krieger, John; (Oxnard, CA)
; Scully, Michael; (Calabasas, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CROWELL & MORING LLP
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY GROUP
P.O. BOX 14300
WASHINGTON
DC
20044-4300
US
|
Assignee: |
Bayerische Motoren Werke
Aktiengesellschaft
Muenchen
DE
|
Family ID: |
56290226 |
Appl. No.: |
10/601306 |
Filed: |
June 23, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10601306 |
Jun 23, 2003 |
|
|
|
PCT/EP01/15203 |
Dec 21, 2001 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
296/180.5 ;
296/191 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06N 3/14 20130101; B62D
25/06 20130101; B62D 35/005 20130101; B32B 5/026 20130101; B62D
29/043 20130101; B32B 2367/00 20130101; B32B 2307/51 20130101; B62D
37/02 20130101; Y02T 10/88 20130101; B32B 2605/00 20130101; B62D
25/105 20130101; B32B 5/24 20130101; D06N 3/0063 20130101; B32B
7/12 20130101; B32B 2307/7265 20130101; B62D 35/007 20130101; B32B
2307/202 20130101; B62D 35/02 20130101; B32B 2307/71 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
296/180.5 ;
296/191 |
International
Class: |
B62D 035/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 23, 2000 |
DE |
100 64 931.9 |
Mar 23, 2001 |
DE |
101 14 276.5 |
Jul 27, 2001 |
DE |
101 36 822.4 |
Nov 28, 2001 |
DE |
101 58 364.8 |
Claims
We claim
1. A section of a body of a vehicle comprising: a flexible material
outer skin that is tensed at least over one part of a frame of the
vehicle, and at least one mechanically moveable adjusting element,
provided beneath or on an edge of the outer skin, enabling the
outer skin to be deformed.
2. The section according to claim 1, wherein the flexible material
outer skin has elastic properties.
3. The section according to claim 2, wherein the flexible material
outer skin can absorb impact energy during an accident.
4. The section according to claim 1, wherein at least on one edge
of the outer skin, a strip, which can be fastened to a component
that is firmly attached to the body by a clip connection, is
attached.
5. The section according to claim 4, wherein the strip is sewn onto
the edge of the outer skin.
6. The section according to claim 4, wherein the strip is made of
plastic.
7. The section according to claim 1, wherein the at least one
adjusting element can be moved in a translatory manner, a rotary
manner, or both translatory and rotary manners.
8. The section according to claim 1, wherein the at least one
adjusting element is moved by an actuator with auxiliary power.
9. The section according to claim 1, wherein the at least one
adjusting element is movable as a function of the vehicle
speed.
10. The section according to claim 1, wherein the outer skin in a
rear area of the vehicle can be deformed in such a way that it
generates an aerodynamic negative lift similar to a rear
spoiler.
11. The section according to claim 10, wherein the outer skin is
made of an elastic material, and wherein the at least one adjusting
element is seated eccentrically, has an elliptic cross-section, or
both is seated eccentrically and has an elliptic cross-section and
has the ability to deform the outer skin in the area of an end
section of a tailgate in such a way that an aerodynamic negative
lift is generated.
12. The section according to claim 10, wherein two swiveling
adjusting elements are provided.
13. The section according to claim 9, wherein, on a moveable
section of a first adjusting element, a second adjusting element is
located.
14. The section according to claim 9, wherein the adjusting element
forms a spoiler, and wherein the adjusting element and a
surrounding area on a body side are covered with the flexible
material outer skin.
15. The section according to claim 14, wherein the spoiler and the
surrounding area on the body side are designed such that,
regardless of the position of the spoiler, no marginal sections of
the spoiler become visible in the flexible material outer skin.
16. The section according to claim 15, wherein the surrounding area
on the body side is a conventional tailgate with a recess for the
spoiler.
17. The section according to claim 16, wherein the spoiler forms at
least partly a rear edge of the tailgate.
18. The section according to claim 17, wherein a taillight is
integrated in the spoiler and the flexible material outer skin is
recessed in an area of the taillight.
19. The section according to claim 14, wherein the flexible
material outer skin has a magnetic coating.
20. The section according to claim 14, wherein the flexible
material outer skin is additionally stretched across at least one
rod which is mounted to the spoiler on one end.
21. The section according to claim 20, wherein the at least one rod
takes on a bent shape which, depending on a spoiler position,
stretches the flexible material outer skin in a certain shape.
22. The section according to claim 21, wherein the at least one rod
is arranged in an impression in the surrounding area on the body
side when the spoiler is in a resting position.
23. The section according to claim 21, wherein the other end of the
at least one rod is connected to a slide which can be displaced on
the surrounding area on the body side.
24. The section according to claim 23, wherein the slide is located
in an impression in the surrounding area on the body side.
25. The section according to claim 20, wherein the at least one
rod, to the left and to the right, forms a lateral extension of a
rear edge of the spoiler.
26. The section according to claim 25, characterized in that the at
least one rod mounted to the spoiler is one piece.
27. The section according to claim 20, wherein the rod has a
low-friction coating.
28. The section according to claim 1, wherein the section is a
rocker panel of the vehicle which can be deformed by the at least
one adjusting element in such a way that aerodynamics of the
vehicle are improved while driving.
29. The section according to claim 28, wherein the at least one
adjusting element is a pivotal adjusting element that is seated
displaceably about an axis beneath the section, and wherein the
axis runs essentially in the longitudinal direction of the
vehicle.
30. The section according to claim 29, wherein the adjusting
element contains different radial extensions around the axis.
31. The section according to claim 1, wherein the section forms a
flap on the vehicle which can be opened or closed by the at least
one adjusting element.
32. The section according to claim 31, wherein the section contains
a slot which can be widened to create an opening.
33. The section according to claim 31, wherein the flap is formed
by two sections which adjoin each other and can be moved apart on a
joint so that an opening is created.
34. The section according to claim 33, wherein both sections can be
connected to each other on the joint through a zipper.
35. The section according to claim 33, wherein both sections can be
connected to each other on the joint through a clip connection.
36. The section according to claim 33, wherein, along edges of the
sections, a rigid strip is attached to at least one of the
sections, and wherein the rigid strip can be displaced by at least
one adjusting element.
37. The section according to claim 1, wherein the outer skin is the
outer skin of a tailgate, and wherein it is possible to vary a
length of said tailgate in the longitudinal direction of the
vehicle if the rear window is shifted in longitudinal direction by
an adjusting element.
38. The section according to claim 1, wherein the section is a
front or rear component of the vehicle which can be modified in its
aerodynamic shape by at least one swiveling adjusting element.
39. The section according to claim 1, wherein the section is an
underbody of the vehicle which can be lowered with the at least one
adjusting element.
40. The section according to claim 1, wherein the section is a
single-piece section that is a fender as well as an outside door
panel of a door, and wherein the door presents the at least one
adjusting element.
41. The section according to claim 1, wherein the section is an
outside door panel, and wherein a height of an upper edge of an
actual door body can be varied through the at least one adjusting
element.
42. The section according to claim 1, wherein the section is a
fender and a wheel well attached both to a chassis and a frame of
the vehicle.
43. The section according to claim 1, wherein the outer skin forms
a vehicle top which can be displaced through the at least one
adjusting element by way of a rear edge in a longitudinal direction
of the vehicle.
44. The section according to claim 1, wherein the outer skin can be
deformed by the at least one adjusting element in such a way that,
depending on a position of the at least one adjusting element, the
outer skin covers at least one of a headlight and a radiator grill
to a different degree or covers different partial areas of at least
one of the headlight and the radiator grill.
45. The section according to claim 44, wherein the outer skin is
one of at least two outer skin sections which cover the headlight
or the radiator grill to a different degree or different partial
areas of the headlight or of the radiator grill.
46. The section according to claim 1, wherein at least one lighting
device is attached beneath the outer skin and at least partly
shines through the outer skin.
47. The section according to claim 46, wherein the at least one
lighting device is directly attached to the outer skin.
48. The section according to claim 1, wherein the at least one
adjusting element is a plug element which can be plugged, in an
easily detachable manner, into at least one socket that is firmly
attached to the body of the vehicle and forms a part of the vehicle
frame, across which an elastic section is stretched.
49. The section according to claim 2, wherein the flexible material
outer skin is a flexible textile planar formation which is coated
with a coating at least on a visible side.
50. The section according to claim 49, wherein the textile planar
formation is a knitted fabric or other fabric.
51. The section according to claim 49, wherein the textile planar
formation includes PES or PEN fibers.
52. The section according to claim 51, wherein the textile planar
formation also contains fibers that can also serve as actuators,
sensors, or both actuators and sensors.
53. The section according to claim 49, wherein the coating has an
adhesive film, an aromatic intermediate layer, and an aliphatic
final layer.
54. The section according to claim 49, wherein the coating offers
UV protection.
55. The section according to claim 49, wherein the coating is
waterproof.
56. The section according to claim 49, wherein the coating is
magnetic.
57. The section according to claim 49, wherein the coating looks
similar to a painted sheet metal surface.
58. The section according to claim 49, wherein the flexible
material outer skin is pre-stretched.
59. A process of changing a configuration of a section of a body of
a vehicle having a flexible material outer skin that is tensed at
least over one part of a frame of the vehicle, comprising
mechanically moving at least one adjusting element provided beneath
or on an edge of the outer skin so as to deform the outer skin.
Description
[0001] This is a continuation of International Application
PCT/EP01/15203 with an international filing date of Dec. 21, 2001,
the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.
[0002] This application also claims the priorities of prior
applications 100 64 931.9, filed in Germany on Dec. 23, 2000, 101
14 276.5, filed in Germany on Mar. 23, 2001, 101 36 822.4, filed in
Germany on Jul. 27, 2001, and 101 58 364.8, filed in Germany on
Nov. 28, 2001.
BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The invention relates to a section of a body of a vehicle
including a flexible material outer skin that is tensed at least
over one part of a frame of the vehicle. The invention also relates
to a process of changing a configuration of such a flat
section.
[0004] An at least partially movable outer skin of a motor vehicle
is known from German patent application DE 100 26 264.3. To be able
to move this outer skin, an actuator consisting of a polymer and/or
ion-exchanging material and/or a material exhibiting various
conformations is provided. This material is movable as a result of
physical or chemical effects.
[0005] It is an object of this invention to create an outer skin of
a motor vehicle body in which the tooling costs required for
manufacture are very low.
[0006] This object is achieved by providing at least one
mechanically moveable adjusting element provided beneath or on an
edge of the outer skin so as to enable the outer skin to be
deformed.
[0007] A flat section of an outer skin of a motor vehicle body
consists of flexible material. A flexible material, such as a
material for a convertible top cover, can be moved easily, but its
surface cannot be increased. This material is tensed at least over
a portion of a motor vehicle frame, for example a space frame.
Pursuant to the invention, at least one mechanically movable
adjusting element is provided beneath or on the edge of the
section, enabling the outer skin to be deformed. The adjusting
element is normally connected with the vehicle frame. The outer
skin, for example, can be tensed by a bow, which can be displaced
in a linear fashion.
[0008] By replacing classic outer skin parts made of sheet metal
with a flexible outer skin, expensive sheet metal forming tools are
no longer required. The weight of the outer skin is reduced
considerably because flexible materials, such as cloth tissues,
have a considerably lower weight than corresponding sheet metal
components. The tight design limits for outer skin parts made of
sheet metal with regard to package as well as regarding a formal
integration of additional functions also no longer apply to the
invented flexible outer skin parts. Through the possibility of
active deformation of the outer skin, movable outer skin parts that
so far used to be separate can also be integrated now. Due to this
integration, gaps and/or joints, which are undesirable for visual
appearance and usually require a lot of sealing efforts in order to
avoid corrosion, do not arise any more with a single outer skin
component. Furthermore, fast and inexpensive repairs are possible,
because not all the various outer skin parts must be kept in
inventory; instead, only a single roll of the flexible material is
sufficient for all the different outer skin parts. The actual
replacement is also simple in the case of an outer skin made of
flexible material, and can thus be done quickly and is less cost
intensive.
[0009] Beneficially, the flexible material has elastic properties,
i.e. the surface of the material can be enlarged. Typical flexible
materials with elastic properties are, among other things, stretch
materials, latex, and all elastomers. A flexible and elastic outer
skin of a motor vehicle body enables the molded design to be even
more free than an outer skin that is only flexible.
[0010] Ideally, the elastic section of the outer skin can absorb
impact forces during an accident. This represents a very simple,
inexpensive and elegant possibility for achieving so-called
pedestrian impact protection. With a skilled design, no separate
components are required any longer. The vehicle passengers can also
be protected during a crash when the outer skin of the body has
energy-absorbing characteristics.
[0011] On one edge of the section, a strip is beneficially
attached, which strip can be fastened to a component that is firmly
attached to the body through a clip connection. The strip can, for
example, be glued to the edge of the section, be welded to it or,
pursuant to a particularly suitable further development, be sewed
onto the edge of the section. For this purpose, the strip is
favorably made of plastic. A sewing needle, for example of an
industrial sewing machine, can effortlessly penetrate a strip that
is made of a thermoplastic and not too thick. The clip connection
of the strip with the component that is attached to the body can be
designed such that the attached component represents a type of rod
onto which the strip can be clipped with a clip section that
contains a channel with a C-shaped cross-section. This clip section
then encloses the rod in the clipped-on section in a form-fit
manner, at least in part.
[0012] High forces can act upon such a clip connection, in
particular with the use of a pre-tensioned section with elastic
properties. In order to lower these forces acting upon the clip
connection, the section can be tensioned in the vicinity of the
clip connection in the direction of the force across a portion of
the vehicle frame or through an adjustment element in such a way
that frictional forces occur in the contact regions between the
vehicle frame and/or the adjusting element and the section. The
forces that are applied onto the clip connection are hereby reduced
roughly by the occurring frictional forces.
[0013] At least one adjustment element can beneficially be moved in
a translatory and/or rotatory fashion. For example, pneumatic,
electric, piezo-electric or hydraulic adjusting elements are
available as standard components for translatory and rotatory
movements. Through the combination of several of these standard
adjusting elements, any motion-related kinematics can be achieved
without requiring a complex special design for the adjusting
element. Alternatively, adjusting elements that are moved solely by
the air flowing around the vehicle while in motion are also
possible.
[0014] A coupling of the movement of an adjusting element to the
vehicle speed is also possible. In particular when the section of
the outer skin is important for the aerodynamics of the vehicle, it
can be desirable to be able to deform the section as a function of
the vehicle speed. In this way, for example, a spoiler only
develops its effect at high velocities. At low speeds, such a
spoiler, which usually does not contribute positively to the visual
beautification of a vehicle, does not necessarily have to be
visible.
[0015] In a beneficial further development the section can be
deformed in the rear area of a vehicle by at least one adjusting
element such that it generates an aerodynamic drive similar to a
rear spoiler. A spoiler designed in this way can be displaced
between a resting position and a usage position.
[0016] Pursuant to a favorable embodiment, the adjusting element
can be seated eccentrically and/or have an elliptic cross-section
so that the outer skin can be deformed in the rear area of the end
section of the tailgate in such a way that an aerodynamic drive is
created.
[0017] Ideally, the adjusting element is swiveled as a function of
the respective vehicle speed. Aerodynamic set-ups and designs of
the body increase its efficiency considerably with increasing
vehicle velocity. At low speeds, such as for example in city
traffic, the effect that can be achieved is very low, while
particularly at low speed the less appealing appearance is
especially visible. Therefore it makes sense to swivel the
adjusting element only at higher vehicle speeds. Due to the swivel
motion, the required storage space is also lower compared to a
translatory motion. In this way the storage space beneath the
tailgate is impaired less.
[0018] In order to increase the effect further, ideally, two
swiveling adjusting elements can also be provided. These two
adjusting elements can be arranged next to each other, or the
second adjusting element can be arranged on a movable section of a
first adjusting element. Depending on the configuration, either a
particularly large spoiler or a spoiler with a particularly large
travel path can be implemented.
[0019] In a favorable embodiment, the spoiler and a surrounding
area on the body side is covered with the section made of a
flexible and elastic material, which forms the outer skin. A gap is
incorporated between the movable spoiler and the surrounding area
on the body side. In familiar spoiler arrangements, this gap is
very difficult to seal and disrupts the visual appearance. By
covering the spoiler and the surrounding area on the body side with
the flexible and elastic material neither sealing is required nor
is the visual appearance impaired by a visible gap. The flexible
and elastic material forms the outer skin and covers the gap so
that no water can penetrate into said gap. The surface quality and
paint of the body and spoiler parts located beneath this outer skin
have to fulfill considerably lower requirements because contrary to
familiar body and spoiler parts they do not form the visible outer
skin. These parts can therefore be produced with less effort and
thus lower cost implications.
[0020] Ideally no marginal sections of the spoiler can be made out
on the outer skin made of flexible and elastic material, regardless
of the position of the spoiler. The drastic difference in height
between the spoiler in the used position and the surrounding area
on the body side is solved in a visually very appealing way through
a continuous transition area on the outer skin, which stretches all
the way across. When the spoiler is shifted from its one final
position into the other final position, it must be ensured that the
flexible and elastic material that stretches across is sufficiently
ductile so that it can tolerate this displacement even in the case
of larger travel paths and still does not flap.
[0021] The spoiler can be both a front and a rear spoiler. It is
particularly advantageous with a rear spoiler if the surrounding
area on the body side is a conventional tailgate with a recess for
the spoiler. Through the essentially conventional area on the body
side beneath the outer skin, existing stiffness and thus also crash
requirements are fulfilled. It is also possible in this way to
attach hinges or a lock in the usual way. Another advantage of such
a sub-structure is that, even when the outer skin is slit open, no
objects can be removed from the trunk space located beneath.
[0022] In a favorable embodiment the spoiler forms at least in part
a rear edge of the tailgate. To improve the aerodynamic properties
of a vehicle, the generation of an aerodynamic negative lift on the
rear axle is important. A sharp flow disruption edge on the rear
edge of the tailgate is particularly suited for this. Such a sharp
flow disruption edge, however, cannot be incorporated in the sheet
metal of the tailgate without a lot of effort. By contrast, a
spoiler that forms the rear edge of the tailgate at least in part
can contain such a sharp rear edge. Usually, the spoiler in this
design will not only form exclusively the sharp rear edge but also
narrow strips of the two adjoining areas of the tailgate. In such a
spoiler, a taillight is also easily integrated in the area of the
rear edge. The outer skin stretched across must then be left open
in the area of the taillight.
[0023] Depending on the spoiler position beneath the flexible and
elastic material, the appearance of the entire tailgate can be
modified substantially. For example, at low speeds when the spoiler
is in the resting position, the tailgate can appear rather rounded
and with a flowing outline. However when at higher speeds the
spoiler is shifted from the resting position into a used position,
the design of the tailgate can change into a very sporty tail with
a sharp flow disruption edge.
[0024] The flexible and elastic material ideally has a magnetic
coating. Through the magnetic coating the outer skin rests against
the spoiler and the surrounding area on the body side in an
adhesive manner if they consist of an iron metal. This can also
prevent an undesirable fluttering of the outer skin at high travel
speeds.
[0025] In another favorable further development the flexible and
elastic material is additionally stretched across at least one rod,
which is attached to one end of the spoiler. The rod will
automatically move with the displacement of the spoiler. Apart from
the spoiler and the surrounding area on the body side it will
therefore contribute considerably to the shape of the outer skin
and thus to the visual appearance. For this purpose the rod can
also take on a bent shape, which depending on the spoiler position
tenses the flexible and elastic material in a certain shape. To
prevent this rod from being visible when the spoiler is in the
resting position, an impression is arranged in the surrounding area
on the body side in which the rod can rest. The impression is then
covered with the tensed outer skin so that it is not visible.
[0026] Since the one end of the rod is firmly attached to the
spoiler, relative motions are created in the other end of the
spoiler to the surrounding area on the body side when the spoiler
is shifted. This end of the rod is thus beneficially connected with
a slide, which can be displaced on the surrounding area on the body
side. This slide, being a purely functional component, should not
be visible if possible. For this purpose the slide is beneficially
located in an impression in the surrounding body-side area, across
which the outer skin stretches, so that it is not visible from the
outside.
[0027] Ideally the rod can consist of a similar material as tent
poles, for example of fiberglass, aluminum, composite materials,
steel etc. Such materials are light, robust, weather-resistant and
yet slightly elastic so that the risk of lateral buckling is
relatively low. The rods beneficially exhibit a low-friction
coating, such as TEFLON. Due to the low-friction coating the outer
skin can slide smoothly across without flapping. In its
cross-section it can have a rectangular, round, oval, tear-shaped
or L-shaped profile.
[0028] In another beneficial embodiment of the invention the
section of the outer skin in the form a rocker panel of the vehicle
can be deformed by at least one adjusting element such that it
improves the aerodynamics of the vehicle during travel. A rigid
rocker panel cannot have an optimal aerodynamic design because
otherwise it would impair the passengers when entering and exiting
to an intolerable extent. The visual appearance of such a rigid
rocker panel would be incompatible with the appealing design. This
issue can be resolved with a displaceable rocker panel, which when
the vehicle is stopped or traveling at low speeds is located in a
resting position so that it is possible to effortlessly get in and
out of the vehicle. It is only at higher velocities that the rocker
panel shifts from the resting position into a used position, which
ensures the desired aerodynamic effects. Additionally the vehicle's
side walls become less dirty with such a rocker panel because at
high speeds the dirt glides along on the bottom or the rocker panel
and is not splashed and whirled up on the side.
[0029] To accomplish this ideally an adjusting element, which is
seated displaceably about an axis beneath the section, is provided.
The adjusting element deforms the outer skin in different fashions
as a function of the angle position, while the axis runs
substantially in the vehicle longitudinal direction. The adjusting
element can have different radial extensions on the circumference
around the axis. This is a particularly simple arrangement, which
nevertheless combines all advantages of a displaceable rocker
panel. Additionally the rocker panel can have a varying outline
across its longitudinal extension, which is coordinated with the
remaining vehicle, without requiring several separate adjusting
elements.
[0030] In another beneficial embodiment the section forms a flap of
a vehicle, which the adjusting element can open or close. A flap of
a vehicle is supposed to cover something in the closed position,
such as a trunk, an engine compartment or a filler neck. In the
opened position of the flap by contrast the area that was covered
before should become accessible as effortlessly and completely as
possible. For this purpose one side of the section can for example
be tilted away or be rolled up from one side. Alternatively in a
favorable embodiment the section can include a slot, which the
adjusting element can expand into an opening. Such a flap however
can also be implemented with two sections pursuant to the
invention. For a closed flap the edges of the two sections meet
with each other so that practically no gap remains between them. To
open the flap, the two edges are shifted away from each other in a
relative motion so that the area covered beneath becomes freely
accessible.
[0031] The two sides of the slot and/or the two sections at the
location of the joint can favorably be connected with each other by
a zipper or a clip connection. This ensures safe connection with a
closed flap. At the same time these two connections can also be
undone quickly and effortlessly so that the flaps can be opened
without difficulty. A locking system can also be incorporated
easily for example with an electric zipper or power-actuated clip
connection.
[0032] Alternatively, along the slot and/or along the edges of the
sections, a rigid strip can be attached to at least one section,
while at least one of these strips can be displaced by at least one
adjusting element. The rigid strip allows bringing the slot sides
and/or the edges into a defined shape. This facilitates defined
opening and closing of the flap. These rigid strips are also well
suited as contact points for an adjusting element so that the flap
can be opened or closed also with power actuation.
[0033] In another interesting application the section is inserted
as an outer skin in a tailgate so that its length can be varied in
the longitudinal direction of the vehicle when the adjusting
element displaces the rear windows in the longitudinal direction.
This way it is possible to increase the passenger compartment as
needed by displacing the rear window backward or also to increase
the trunk by displacing the rear window forward. This enables very
flexible usage of the vehicle.
[0034] Equivalent to the use of the section as spoiler, the section
can ideally also be modified in its aerodynamic shape as a front or
rear component of a vehicle through at least one swiveling
adjusting element. Front or rear components here represent parts,
which are located on the front or rear end of the vehicle, and at
least in part also represent the transition to the vehicle floor,
such as for example bumpers. Aerodynamically particularly effective
are front or rear components that are located just above the road.
Such front or rear components, however, can accidentally be damaged
easily, for example while parking the vehicle or leaving a parking
spot close to relatively high curbs. Since such front or rear
components like all aerodynamic components can really only exhibit
their full effect at high speeds, it is useful that the front or
rear components are shifted from a resting position into an active
position by means of an adjusting element only at higher
velocities.
[0035] In another favorable application the section can be lowered
by means of an adjusting element as an underbody of a vehicle. The
underbody should assume as favorable an aerodynamic shape as
possible. As with all aerodynamic components, a noticeable effect
only takes place at relatively high velocities. It is therefore
useful to lower the underbody only beyond a certain speed. Since
the section then covers both the exhaust system, including the
catalytic converter, and the rear axle drive, the section naturally
must be able to withstand also accordingly high temperatures.
Additionally the section must not be affected detrimentally by
kicked-up rocks.
[0036] In a particularly attractive application the section is one
piece and represents a fender and an outside door panel at the same
time, while the door represents the adjusting element. This
eliminates the gap between the front door edge and the adjoining
fender and considerably improves the visual appearance.
[0037] Also very effective is the use of the invented section as an
outside door panel, whose height of the upper edge of the actual
door body can be adjusted with an adjusting element. This way the
height of the door's top edge can be varied. If desired and
depending on the weather a particularly low top edge can be
selected for example in nice weather and good mood or a
particularly high top edge in poor weather or bad mood.
[0038] The section pursuant to the invention can beneficially also
be used as a fender and wheel well. The section is then attached
both to the chassis as adjusting element and to the body. The
visible gap between wheel and wheel well can thus be kept very
small without limiting travel of the wheel. This represents a
considerable visual improvement. However the aerodynamic effect
should also not be underestimated because the wheel well is a much
more closed unit so that less undesirable air turbulence is
created.
[0039] In a much more developed version the section can be
displaced by means of an adjusting element as the vehicle roof with
the rear edge in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Such an
embodiment makes it possible for one to either enlarge the size of
the passenger compartment or the trunk, and secondly the visual
appearance of the entire vehicle can be modified considerably.
[0040] In a very aesthetic and nevertheless simple embodiment the
section can be deformed by at least one adjusting element such that
depending on the position of the adjusting element the section
covers a headlight and/or a radiator grill to varying degrees
and/or different partial regions of the headlight and/or the
radiator grill. Depending on the type of coverage of the headlight,
the vehicle can assume quite different appearances. When the
section for example covers the headlight especially from beneath,
the vehicle (with the headlights being the eyes) assumes a rather
friendly appearance. The section can basically serve as the eyelid
and in accordance with a human face convey the vehicle's different
expressions. The same also applies to the radiator grill, which
basically corresponds to the mouth and nose section of a face.
[0041] In a favorable further development at least two sections are
used, which cover a headlight and/or a radiator grill to varying
degrees and/or different partial sections of the headlight or the
radiator grill. The "facial expression" of the vehicle can be
modified to even more varying degrees with two or more sections.
The facial expression can be modified both as a function of the
speed, e.g. sporty at high speeds, and also as a function of the
driver's mood.
[0042] Beneficially a lighting device is installed beneath the
invented section, with said device shining at least partially
through the section. For simplicity reasons the lamp can also be
attached directly to the section for this purpose. For example
lamps such as indicators, brake lights etc. can be hidden beneath
the section. When the lamps are not in operation, they are not
visible beneath the cover. The problem with the gap and the sealing
issue are also non-existent here because the lamps are located in a
dry area beneath the section. Alternatively the lamps however can
also be used to provide extensive back-lighting of the section. For
example the color of the section can also be modified to the likes
of the driver.
[0043] The invented section can be deformed in a particularly
simple version also by at least one adjusting element, which is a
plug element that can be inserted detachably into at least one
socket that is firmly installed in the body, and forms a portion of
the vehicle frame across which the elastic section is stretched.
The term adjusting. element used in connection with the invention
also includes these plug elements, which can be exchanged quickly
manually by the user or in a repair shop. The cross-section and the
shape of the plug elements can be ideally selected freely. Similar
to the Smart vehicle, the appearance of the vehicle can thus be
modified effortlessly, for example by exchanging a few plug
elements with others of a different shape beneath the section. The
entire shape and characteristic of a vehicle can thus be modified
considerably in next to no time.
[0044] Flexible folding tops for convertibles made of textiles are
generally known. Such a folding top is described for example in
European publication EP 0 530 134 B1. This top contains, among
other things, textile tissue zones made of elastic rubber fibers,
which are elastically ductile in length. With regard to length,
elastically ductile tissue zones have to absorb only few
forces.
[0045] Additionally, with regard to length, elastically ductile
tissue zones are arranged such that they are normally covered, i.e.
not exposed directly to UV light.
[0046] If now entire sections of the outer skin of a vehicle body
are supposed to be made of an elastic material instead of sheet
metal, this material must exhibit a very high resistance to
tearing. Additionally, to avoid undesired noise and undesired
aerodynamically caused flattening and wobble appearances, the
material should be attached in a pre-stressed fashion, wherein it
must never lose this pre-tension. Familiar tissues made of elastic
rubber fibers are not suited as a material that has to exhibit a
high resistance to tearing because they do not achieve the required
elastic expansions.
[0047] A suitable section pursuant to the invention for a visible
outer skin of a vehicle body can consist of a flexible planar
textile formation, which is coated at least on the visible side.
The planar textile formation represents the actual supporting
layer. It is responsible for the stiffness, firmness and the
associated protection from vandalism.
[0048] Textile planar formations can be tissues, knitted fabrics or
fleece. A tissue consists of two fiber systems crossing
perpendicular to each other, of which the chain (warp) runs
vertically and the filling (woof) horizontally. The quality of a
tissue depends, apart from the crossing of the fibers, on the
material, thickness and type of thread, the finish, color,
durability, pliability, stiffness, firmness and haft. Tissues for
structural applications can generally be expanded only
insignificantly in the longitudinal and transverse directions and
are therefore less suited for the elastic material pursuant to the
invention. Ductile tissues, which fulfill the required reversible
ductility, however, can also be realized on the basis of highly
ductile, for example texture-proof, threads. A fleece or a mat
consists of randomly arranged filament yarn or staple fibers. Since
the fibers here are arranged randomly, such a textile formation can
have the undesired effect that it fluctuates heavily in its
properties. Additionally a fleece does not exhibit a distinct
spring-back behavior. Knitted fabrics are made of stitches and are
produced on hosiery or knitting machines. Compared to a knitted
fabric, fabrics have additional cross-connections between the
stitches. Knitted fabrics expand well in the longitudinal and
transverse directions. Fabrics, however, exhibit slightly different
characteristics in the longitudinal and transverse directions.
Ideally the planar textile formation therefore is a knitted fabric
or a fabric. In the case of a knitted fabric, additionally, a
unidirectional woof for reinforcement purposes can occur, i.e.
additional fibers or threads can be introduced into the textile
formation in one or more directions.
[0049] The elasticity of the material however is determined not
only by the textile structure, but also by the material of the
fibers and/or threads of which the textile formation consists. In
order to achieve a very high resistance to tearing despite the
elastic ductility, the elasticity should preferably come
exclusively from the structure of the textile formation and not
from the material of the fibers and/or threads of the textile
formation. Therefore only relatively firm fibers can be considered,
such as for example of polyamide, polyethylene teraphtalate,
polyethylene, aramide fibers or steel fibers. Fibers made of
polyamide have a low light fastness and are slightly hydrophobic
and expensive. Beneficially the fibers are made of polyethylene
teraphtalate (PES or PET). PES is a high-tensile material, has a
low creep tendency, and its shrinkage can be adjusted. It takes on
color well, and there is a broad spectrum offered. Availability is
high, and the desired properties can be adjusted well through
additives. Polyethylene by contrast, although it is extremely firm
and highly tenacious, is very expensive, hydrophobic and has a low
melting point as well as a distinct creep tendency. As a further
development of PES, PEN of course is also very well suited. PEN has
just slightly higher mechanical properties and a lower creep
tendency. Aramide fibers are extremely tenacious, firm and
temperature-resistant, but expensive, hydrophobic and have poor
adhesive properties. Steel fibers are high-tensile and tenacious
materials and are corrosion-proof. However they are expensive and
problematic in their processing. Aramide fibers and steel fibers
are therefore unsuited as sole materials, but can be admixed in
order to increase protection of the textile formation against
vandalism.
[0050] In the textile formation furthermore additional fibers can
be integrated, which serve the purpose of sensors and/or actuators.
For example, non pre-published German patent application DE 101 10
329.8 describes textiles into which fiber-optic fibers are
introduced, which can be illuminated by a light source. From
likewise non pre-published German patent application DE 100 29
237.2, a seat heater is known, which heats up locally only in areas
in which a passenger actually applies pressure on the seat. For
this purpose appropriate wires, which under load generate a contact
with each other, can be woven into the textile seat cover.
[0051] The coating can be waterproof and represent the necessary
protection from UV light. The coating is also responsible for wear
and tear resistance as well as for appearance. The appearance
includes not only the actual appearance, but also to what extent
dirt is rejected by the coating or at least can be removed from
there easily. It is only through the combination of a planar
textile formation with the coating that all requirements regarding
tear resistance, weather resistance, wear resistance and reversible
elastic pre-tension ability can be fulfilled.
[0052] The coating consists favorably of an adhesive layer, an
aromatic intermediate layer and an aliphatic top layer. The
adhesive layer guarantees optimal adhesion of the coating to the
textile tissue. The aromatic intermediate layer ensures water
tightness and UV resistance, and the aliphatic top layer generates
the desired visual outer appearance. Since the invented textile
formation in vehicles is supposed to replace especially outer skin
parts made of sheet metal, above all an appearance that is similar
to a painted sheet metal surface is desired. For this, surfaces
with different levels of luster (matte to high gloss) and with
different levels of roughness (smooth or structured) are used.
[0053] Further beneficial embodiments form the subject matter of
dependent claims.
[0054] The drawings depict several exemplary embodiments of the
invention, which are described more closely in the following.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0055] FIG. 1 is a side view of a vehicle with several sections
beneath which several adjusting elements are arranged according to
the invention,
[0056] FIG. 2 is a view of an attachment of one edge of a section
to a component that is firmly attached to the body with a clip
connection,
[0057] FIG. 3 is a view of a vehicle rear section with a rear
spoiler,
[0058] FIG. 4 is a sectional view of a rear spoiler according to
FIG. 3,
[0059] FIG. 5 is an alternative spoiler according to FIG. 3,
[0060] FIG. 6 is a sectional view through a vehicle rear area with
a rear spoiler that has been integrated in the outer skin in a
resting position,
[0061] FIG. 7 is a sectional view through the vehicle rear area
shown in FIG. 6 with the rear spoiler in a semi-assumed usage
position,
[0062] FIG. 8 is a sectional view through the vehicle rear area
shown in FIG. 6 with the rear spoiler in a fully assumed usage
position,
[0063] FIG. 9 is a sectional view, in the longitudinal direction of
the vehicle, through a tailgate with a displaceable rear
spoiler,
[0064] FIG. 10 shows the tailgate with rear spoiler from FIG. 9 in
a perspective view,
[0065] FIG. 11 is a view of a vehicle side with a rocker panel
having a size which can be varied,
[0066] FIG. 12 is a sketch of the mechanism of the rocker panel of
FIG. 11 with a size which can be varied,
[0067] FIG. 13 is a side view of a vehicle with a displaceable
rocker panel,
[0068] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view along line A-A through the
rocker panel of FIG. 13,
[0069] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a vehicle with a closed
hood,
[0070] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the vehicle of FIG. 15 with
an opened hood,
[0071] FIG. 17 is a view of a vehicle rear section with a small
rear flap having a size which can be varied,
[0072] FIG. 18 is a view of the vehicle rear section of FIG. 17
with a large rear flap having a size which can be varied,
[0073] FIG. 19 is a side view of a vehicle front area with an
aerodynamic shape which can be varied,
[0074] FIG. 20 is a side view of a vehicle with evenly displaceable
underbody,
[0075] FIG. 21 is a side view of a vehicle with unevenly
displaceable underbody,
[0076] FIG. 22 is a sketch of the mechanism of the displaceable
underbody shown in FIG. 21,
[0077] FIG. 23 is a view of a vehicle with a single-piece outer
skin section which forms both a fender and an outside door
panel,
[0078] FIG. 24 is a solid view of a vehicle with height-adjustable
upper door edge in the lowest position,
[0079] FIG. 25 is a view of the vehicle shown in FIG. 24 with the
upper door edge in the center position,
[0080] FIG. 26 is a view of the vehicle shown in FIG. 24 with the
upper door edge in the highest position,
[0081] FIG. 27 is a sketch of the mechanism of the
height-adjustable upper door edge shown in FIGS. 24, 25, and
26,
[0082] FIG. 28 is a view of a vehicle with a single-piece, movable
outer skin section which simultaneously is a fender and a wheel
well,
[0083] FIG. 29 is a sketch of the outer skin section moving
mechanism of FIG. 28,
[0084] FIG. 30 is a side view of a vehicle with a displaceable roof
in the rear position,
[0085] FIG. 31 is a side view of the vehicle of FIG. 30 with the
displaceable roof in the front position,
[0086] FIG. 32 is another view of the vehicle of FIG. 30,
[0087] FIG. 33 shows a headlight with a friendly expression,
[0088] FIG. 34 shows the headlight of FIG. 33 with an unfriendly
expression,
[0089] FIG. 35 shows a lamp that is arranged behind a section
pursuant to the invention,
[0090] FIG. 36 is a sketch of a plug element which is stretched
across a section,
[0091] FIG. 37 is a sketch similar to FIG. 36 but showing a
different plug element,
[0092] FIG. 38 is a sectional view through a material pursuant to
the invention,
[0093] FIG. 39 is a basic depiction of a fabric in the material of
FIG. 38, and
[0094] FIG. 40 is a power-expansion diagram of the material of FIG.
38.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0095] FIG. 1 depicts a passenger car from the side. A space frame
forms the supporting structure of this passenger car. Across this
space frame a flexible and elastic cover material, which serves as
planking, is stretched in the area of the hood 2, the front fender
4 and the side door 6. The shape of this cover material is hereby
specified by the vehicle frame, across which the cover material is
tensed. In order to achieve an aesthetic shape, apart from the
supporting structure so-called splines 8, 10 are attached to the
space frame, with the cover material being stretched across them
for shaping purposes. These splines 8, 10 are simple rods, which
are bent such that they stretch the cover material in the desired
shape. They can be displaced in relation to the supporting
structure by means of an actuator and serve thus as adjusting
element. For example, spline 8, which marks the center of the hood
2 in the vehicle's longitudinal direction, can be lifted upward.
Spline 10, which forms the transition between the hood 2 and the
front fender 4, by contrast, can be lowered by means of an actuator
and displaced slightly outward.
[0096] In this way it is possible, on a finished vehicle, to modify
the visual appearance of the vehicle considerably just by moving
the splines 8, 10 with actuators. This modification can be
triggered for example with the push of a button in the dashboard
and can thus occur as a function of the mood of the user of the
vehicle. Alternatively the modification can also take place as a
function of speed so that beyond a certain speed the vehicle
assumes an aerodynamically more favorable shape or a design with a
sporty appearance.
[0097] In the example shown in FIG. 1, additionally, the joint
between the hood 2 and the front fender 3 is eliminated. This
improves the visual appearance, and the otherwise required seals
between hood 2 and fender 4 are no longer required.
[0098] The elastic material must hereby always maintain a certain
level of pre-stress to prevent it from undesired flapping. In light
of the very different ambient conditions, such as temperature,
rain, ice, snow, relative wind etc., a relatively high level of
pre-stress is required. The material shall nevertheless be fastened
to the vehicle in a manner that permits a quick exchange. Ideally
each. vehicle's user shall be able to replace the material himself
when it is old or damaged. This would also make it possible to
change the color of the vehicle at any time, simply by placing a
material of a different color over the vehicle frame. Suitable
fastening of the material is shown in FIG. 2.
[0099] A strip 14 made of a thermoplastic resin is sewn onto the
edge of the flexible material 12. On the outer edge the strip 14
contains a C-shaped channel 16, with which it can be clipped onto a
rod 18 in a form-fit manner. This rod 18 can be connected either
directly with the body or be displaceable relative to the body by
means of an adjusting element. These fastening arrangements are
favorably arranged such that they are not directly visible from the
outside. To accomplish this, the material 12 can for example be
previously rerouted from the visible. vehicle's exterior inward
with a spline 20 and be attached to the rod 18 there. The necessary
retaining force of the clip connection in this configuration is
additionally reduced by the frictional force between the material
12 and the spline 20.
[0100] Designing the vehicle's outer skin through such a flexible
and/or elastic material 12 represents a very advantageous solution
also in connection with separately displaceable outer skin parts.
This will be explained in detail with a series of such
applications.
[0101] FIG. 3 shows a solid view of a vehicle rear area 22. In the
region of the tailgate 24 the outer skin 26 of the vehicle body
consists of an elastic material, such as latex for example. This
elastic material is tensed smoothly across a frame formed by the
vehicle frame. Not visible from the exterior, an adjusting element
is arranged beneath the elastic outer skin 26. This adjusting
element can be shifted from the invisible resting position into a
usage position by means of an electric actuating drive. In the
usage position, the adjusting element elastically deforms the outer
skin 26 from beneath and moves it in one area into the shape of a
rear spoiler. As shown in the basic sketch in FIG. 4, the adjusting
element can be in the form of a pivoted flap 28 in the front in the
vehicle's direction. In the depicted usage position of the flap 28,
in which it is tilted slightly upward through an actuator, the
outer skin 26 is elastically deformed in a clearly upward fashion
in the rear area of the tailgate 24. The outer skin 26 that has
been deformed this way thus generates an aerodynamic flow
disruption similar to a rear spoiler and thus reduces the lift on
the vehicle's rear axle.
[0102] Alternatively to the embodiment of the adjusting element as
flap 28, as shown in FIG. 4, an embodiment as hoop 30 is also
possible, as shown diagrammatically in a sectional view in FIG. 5.
A simple hoop 30, which consists for example of a bent pipe, is
swiveled upward from a resting position into a usage position.
[0103] FIG. 6 shows another variation as to how such a rear spoiler
can be implemented on a rear section 32 of a vehicle. In the area
of the tailgate 34, the outer skin 36 consists of an elastic
material. This elastic material is stretched smoothly across a
frame formed by the vehicle frame. Not visible from the exterior,
an electrically driven adjusting element 40 is arranged beneath the
elastic outer skin 36 in the area of the end section of the
tailgate 34. The adjusting element 40 has an elliptic cross-section
and is pivoted eccentrically laterally about an axis 42. In the
depicted resting position, the adjusting element 40 does not come
in contact with the elastic outer skin 36. The adjusting element 40
is only displaced at vehicle speeds of 120 km/h and above
proportional to the vehicle speed.
[0104] FIG. 7 shows an intermediate position of the adjusting
element 40, which roughly corresponds to a vehicle speed of 160
km/h. On the end section 38 of the tailgate 34 the adjusting
element 40 already pushes the outer skin 36 clearly visibly upward
with its cam. It deforms the outer skin 36 elastically from beneath
and brings it into the shape of rear spoiler in this end section of
the tailgate 34. The outer skin 36 deformed this way forms a flow
disruption edge, which creates an aerodynamic flow separation and
thus reduces the aerodynamic lift on the vehicle's rear axle.
[0105] FIG. 8 shows the adjusting element 40 in the maximum
upwardly swiveled position, which is achieved at the vehicle's
maximum speed. In this position, the elastic outer skin 36 is
flattened upward in the end section 38 of the tailgate 34 by about
25 mm compared to the resting position.
[0106] The outer skin 36 is tensed smoothly in all positions of the
adjusting element 30 due to its elasticity. Such an integration of
the functionality of a rear spoiler does not disrupt the. design
and is mechanically less complex than classic telescoping rear
spoilers, as we know them for example in existing vehicles. The
required space is also considerably less than is the case with
conventional rear spoilers. It no longer contains a visible gap
between the spoiler and the tailgate, and the sealing issue of the
gap is also eliminated because all these areas are covered with the
waterproof outer skin 36.
[0107] FIG. 9 depicts another variation of such a rear spoiler. The
tailgate 44 shown in a stressed-skin design contains an inside
metal plate 46 and an outside metal plate 48. The outside metal
plate 48 contains a recess in the area of the rear edge 50 and a
spoiler 52 has been inserted as the adjusting element. Together
with a steel plate the spoiler 52 forms on one hand the sharp rear
edge 50 and on the other hand a small strip 54 and 56,
respectively, of the areas adjoining the rear edge 50. The spoiler
52 is displaceable in a linear fashion from the resting position
into a usage position, indicated with dotted lines, through two
pneumatic cylinders 58. An electric or hydraulic drive for the
spoiler 52 would also be feasible. An elastic tissue 60 stretches
across the entire area of the tailgate 44 shown, including the
spoiler 52. It also covers the gap 62 between the spoiler 52 and
the outside metal plate 48 so that it is not visible from the
outside. The tissue 60 contains a magnetic coating, which causes it
to rest against the outside metal plate 48 of the tailgate 44 and
the steel plate 50, 54 and 56 of the spoiler 52 as much as possible
in an adhesive manner. The tissue 60 additionally contains a
coating on the visible side, whose texture looks like sheet metal.
Said coating can have either exactly the same color as the rest of
the vehicle or it can consciously be done in a different color for
accent purposes.
[0108] The visible outer skin is formed by the tissue 60 so that
the outside metal plate 48 located beneath must neither have the
surface quality nor the paint quality of a regular outside metal
plate. It even suffices if the outside metal plate 48 is only
primed to prevent corrosion. Additionally no complex sealing
concepts are required for preventing water from penetrating into
the gap 62.
[0109] The outside metal plate 48 and the steel plate 50, 54 and 56
of the spoiler 52 are designed such that the tissue 60 is tensed in
every position of the spoiler 52 such that no edges show in the
outer skin. For this purpose, in the resting position of the
spoiler 52, the tissue 60 rests on top of the tailgate 44 only
against the outside metal plate 48 and the rear edge 50. of the
spoiler 52. It stretches freely across the strip 54 formed by the
spoiler 52. The tissue 60 so-to-speak forms an extension of the
outside metal plate 48 towards the rear edge 50. In the usage
position of the spoiler 52 by contrast the tissue 60 rests against
the rear edge 50 and the adjoining strip 54. It stretches freely
across the area of the outside metal plate 48 adjoining the gap 62
and thus forms quasi an extension of the strip 54. The same applies
to the rear of the tailgate 44.
[0110] FIG. 10 shows the tailgate 44 with the spoiler 52 in the
usage position without the outer skin made of the tissue 60. Into
the rear edge 50 of the spoiler 52 a rod 64 made of TEFLON is
introduced, which protrudes laterally to the left and right of the
spoiler 52 and forms an extension of the rear edge 50. On the left
and right said rod 64 is symmetrically bent forward and runs level
on the outside metal plate 48. Since the rod 64 is firmly attached
to the spoiler 52, relative motions of the free ends of the rod 64
to the outside metal plate 48 are created when displacing the
spoiler. These free ends of the rod 64 are therefore connected with
a slide 66, respectively, which can be displaced on or in the
tailgate 44. Since the slides 66 are not exactly pretty to look at,
they are arranged in an impression in the outside metal plate 48.
These impressions with the slides 66 arranged therein are not
visible because the tissue 60 extends across the tailgate 44. The
rod 64 serves the purpose of shaping the tissue 60 when the spoiler
52 is not in the resting position. Similar to a tent, the rod 64
stretches the tissue 60 in an aesthetically pleasing shape. This
way the tailgate 44 can assume different shapes depending on the
position of the spoiler 52.
[0111] In the resting position of the spoiler 52 the rod 64 is not
supposed to deform the tissue 60. For this purpose an impression,
in which the rod 64 rests when the spoiler 52 is in the resting
position, is provided in the outside metal plate 48 to the left and
right of the spoiler 52, respectively.
[0112] When exceeding a vehicle speed of about 80 km/h the spoiler
52 is shifted from the resting position into the usage position.
Vice versa however it does not retract again until the vehicle
speed is less than about 50 km/h because in the appropriate
controls a switching hysteresis is taken into consideration.
[0113] Apart from an application of this flat and flexible section
of an outer skin of a vehicle in the area of the rear spoiler, it
is also useful in applications in the area of a rocker panel.
[0114] FIG. 11 depicts a solid view of a vehicle side 68 with a
rocker panel 70 whose size can be adjusted and across which elastic
material 76 is stretched. At high vehicle speeds, an actuator can
deform the rocker panel 70 elastically such that it becomes wider
and thus assumes an aerodynamically more optimal shape. Since this
telescoped rocker panel 70 would impair the process of getting in
and out of the vehicle, it is moved out only at high vehicle
speeds. The appropriate mechanism is shown in a diagrammatic view
in FIG. 12. A pivoted metal sheet part 74 bent like a rocker panel
and containing a hinge 72 is arranged as an adjusting element
beneath the elastic material 76 in an invisible resting position,
as the left of the image reflects. When this bent metal sheet part
74 bent like a rocker panel is swiveled outward by an electric
actuator, which is not shown here, it presses laterally into the
elastic material 76, which forms the rocker panel 70, and there
clearly outlines its shape on the front of the material 76, as
shown in the right half of the image.
[0115] An alternative version of such a rocker panel is shown in
FIGS. 13 and 14. FIG. 13 is view of a passenger car shown from the
side. The passenger car contains a distinct rocker panel 78, which
extends between the front and the rear wheels in the vehicle's
longitudinal direction. An elastic material, which forms the
visible outer skin, stretches across the rocker panel 78. Adjusted
to the respective vehicle speed, the rocker panel 78 can assume
several different shapes. The functionality of the rocker panel 78
can be seen in the sectional view A-A in FIG. 14. The rocker panel
78 consists of a shaft 80, which extends in the vehicle's
longitudinal direction and which being electrically driven (as an
adjusting element) can assume various angular positions. Parallel
to the shaft 80, three rods 82, 84, 86 are arranged on the shaft 80
while being offset from each other by 120.sup.0, respectively. Each
rod 82, 84, 86 has a different distance to the shaft 80. Which of
the three rods 82, 84, 86 deforms the elastic material in the area
of the rocker panel 78 and thus specifies the shape of the rocker
panel 78 depends on the angular position of the shaft 80. If it is
for example rod 82 that has the largest distance to the shaft 80,
then the elastic material is deformed substantially and the rocker
panel 78 will appear very clearly.
[0116] An outer skin made of an elastic material can also be used
for vehicle flaps. This will be. explained in the following based
on FIGS. 15 and 16. FIG. 15 shows a hood 88 of a passenger car in
the closed state. In the center the hood 88 is divided in the
vehicle's longitudinal direction into two sections 90 and 92
consisting of an elastic material. The two sections 90 and 92 are
connected with each other through an electric zipper 94 as the
adjusting element. To open it, only the electric zipper 94 must be
opened. Then, as shown in FIG. 16, the two sections 90 and 92 can
be pulled apart starting from the zipper 94 area so that the area
beneath becomes accessible.
[0117] A different application is shown in FIGS. 17 and 18. They
show a tailgate 96 made of an elastic material with variable
lengths in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. FIG. 17 shows
a solid view of a vehicle rear section 98. The depicted rear window
100 can be displaced in the vehicle's longitudinal direction as an
adjusting element and is located in the rear end position. In this
position the tailgate 96 is the shortest. Nevertheless the flexible
material, of which the tailgate 96 consists, does not sag, but is
still slightly tensed because due to its elastic properties it
cannot contract so much. FIG. 18 shows the same vehicle rear
section 98, however the rear window 100 is located in the front end
position. In this case the tailgate 96 is the longest. The elastic
material of the tailgate 96 is stretched the most. In this way,
depending on the associated needs, either the trunk or the space in
the passenger compartment for passengers on the back seats can be
increased.
[0118] Based on a similar concept as that of the rocker panels in
FIGS. 11 and 12, front and rear parts whose aerodynamic shape can
be modified can also be implemented. For illustration purposes FIG.
19 shows a vehicle front 102 from the side. At high vehicle speeds,
the vehicle front 102 lowers downward into an aerodynamically more
optimal shape, triggered by the relative wind. Here as well a
pivoted metal sheet part 106 bent like a front part and containing
a hinge 104 is arranged as an adjusting element beneath the elastic
material 110 in an invisible resting position. When this bent metal
sheet part 106 bent like a front part is swiveled into the lower
usage positions by the pressure of the wind 108, it presses on the
bottom into the elastic material 110, which forms the vehicle front
102, and there clearly outlines its shape on the outside of the
material 110.
[0119] Just as easy to implement is an underbody of a vehicle that
can be lowered, with said underbody consisting at least in part of
a flexible material. To accomplish this, at least two different
mechanisms are available. In the first mechanism shown in FIG. 20,
the underbody 112 is lowered evenly basically across the entire
length of the vehicle. The actual underbody here consists of a
solid material 114, however around the entire circumference the
connection of the underbody to the body is established with an
elastic material 116. In the second mechanism shown in FIG. 21, the
underbody 112 is lowered considerably more around the vehicle's
center and thus forms a shape similar to the bottom of the wing of
an airplane 118. For this purpose, the underbody 112 consists of a
slightly flexible material 116 because otherwise the underbody 112
would flutter undesirably. This slightly flexible material 116
permits exactly a deformation of the underbody 112 between the
plate-like shape when resting against the vehicle floor and the
wing-like shape in the lowered state. The appropriate mechanism is
shown in a basic sketch in FIG. 22. The back end of the flexible
underbody 112 consists of a rigid rod 120, which is guided the left
and right in a gate 122.
[0120] With an electric actuator, which is not shown here, the
rigid rod 120 and therefore the back end of the underbody 112 can
be pushed from the rear position shown in the upper section of the
image forward in the gate guide 122, as shown in the lower section
of the image. Since the front end of the underbody 112 is firmly
attached to the supporting structure of the vehicle and the
underbody 112 cannot be modified with regard to its length, it is
lowered in the center when the back end with the rod 120 is
displaced forward.
[0121] FIG. 23 shows a visually very aesthetic application. The
entire outer skin 124 of a fender 126 and a vehicle door 128 is
designed as one piece made of elastic material. A gap on the
outside in the outer skin 124 between the fender 126 and vehicle
door 128 is no longer required. A sealing of the gap that is
otherwise required can thus be eliminated. The gap is covered with
the same elastic material as that of the outer skin 124 of the
fender 126 and the vehicle door 128. When opening the vehicle door
128 the elastic material can contract over the gap enough that the
material, without flapping, covers the gap in a slightly tensed
manner. When closing the vehicle door 126 the elastic material is
expanded across the gap again enough that it covers the gap in a
tensed fashion without tearing. For obtaining an optimal shape, the
elastic outer skin 124 can also additionally be supported by a rod
130, which extends from the fender 126 across the gap into the
vehicle door 126. Said rod 130 contains an elastic section 132 in
the center, wherein said section is able to follow the necessary
movements in the area of the gap when opening and closing the
vehicle door 128.
[0122] FIGS. 24 through 26 each show a solid view of a vehicle 134
with a vehicle door 136, whose top surface 138 can change with
regard to height. In FIG. 24 the top surface 138 of the vehicle
door is in the lowest position, in FIG. 25 in the center position
138' and in FIG. 26 in the highest position 138". For this purpose
the outer skin 140 of the vehicle door 136 consists of elastic
material. Hidden beneath this outer skin 140, an adjusting element
is arranged on the top surface 138, 138', 138" of the vehicle door
136, as shown in FIG. 27 in a basic sectional view through the
vehicle door 136. Said adjusting element is pivoted in the form of
a flap 142 on the edge of the top surface 138, 138', 138" that
faces the vehicle interior by means of a hinge 144, as depicted in
the left section of the image. With a pneumatic actuator, which is
not shown here, the flap 142 can be swiveled about the hinge 144
upward, as is indicated in the right section of the image. Since
the flap 142 is covered with the elastic outer skin 140, the top
surface 138, 138', 138" of the outer skin 140 of the vehicle door
136 shifts along with the flap 142 upward or downward. This way,
depending on the mood of the driver, a rather open or a rather
closed overall impression can be conveyed.
[0123] FIG. 28 shows an application of an elastic outer skin on a
wheel well 146. Due to the outer skin's elasticity it is possible
not to have to hold the spring excursion of the suspension
completely in the wheel well 146. The elastic material of the wheel
well 146 is on one hand connected with a solid fender 148, on the
other hand with the suspension. This way the wheel well 146 can be
attached very close to the actual tire 150. The exact functionality
can be viewed in the basic sectional view in FIG. 29. Around the
tire 150 a solid molding 152 is attached to the suspension 154 in
the upper region. The area between the outer edge of said molding
152 and the fender 148 is bridged with the wheel well 146 made of
elastic material. Said elastic material is always evenly tensed due
to its pre-stress, even if depending on the deflection of the tire
150 the suspension 154 and thus the molding 152 assumes the lowest,
as shown on the left, or the highest, as shown on the right,
position.
[0124] Applications in the roof area are also possible. FIG. 30
shows a side view of a vehicle 156 with a variable top 158 made of
elastic material in the rear position. FIG. 31 depicts the same top
158' in the front position. The lower rear edge of the top 158' can
be displaced in the vehicle's longitudinal direction. Due to the
elasticity of the material, the passenger compartment beneath the
top 158, 158' can thus be varied in its size. For illustration
purposes FIG. 32 shows a solid view of the vehicle 158 from FIG. 30
with the top 158' in the front position.
[0125] A less spectacular, but very effective application is
possible for headlights. FIG. 33 shows two headlights 160, which
are arranged next to each other and which each are covered from the
top and the bottom in part by a section 162 or 164 made of a
flexible material. If now the front view of the vehicle with such
headlights 160 is regarded as a face, the headlights 160 correspond
to the eyes. In FIG. 33 the two sections 162 and 164 cover the
headlights 160 in part such that it appears as if the "eye" is
laughing. Through adjusting elements however the sections 162 and
164 can also be displaced such that they cover the headlights 160
such that they turn into an unfriendly image as that in FIG. 34.
Said modification of the vehicle's appearance can in turn be
controlled for example from inside the vehicle in dependency on the
mood of the vehicle's user.
[0126] An outer skin of a vehicle, which consists of a flexible
and/or elastic material, offers additional basic opportunities for
equipping the vehicle with more individual features. As shown in
FIG. 35, for example a lamp 168 can be arranged beneath the
material 166. Said lamp 168 shines at least partially through the
material 166 to the outside when it is turned on. The material 166
should therefore be relatively transparent at least in the area of
the lamp 168 so that the required luminosity is reached on the
outside. For example indicator or brake lights can be implemented
this way, which are only visible from the outside when they are
turned on. In this way no gaps are created, and no more sealing is
required between the lamps 168 and the adjoining body.
[0127] So-called ambient lighting however is also feasible. The
lamp 168 or lamps do not shine through the material 166 as much in
certain points, but instead light it over a large surface from
behind. This way the vehicle, for example in the dark, can have a
slightly lit outer skin in the color of the respective lamp
168.
[0128] In all applications so far described, actively displaceable
adjusting elements have been provided. In some areas it suggests
itself that the adjusting elements are designed as plug elements.
Such plug elements are splines 170, which as shown in FIG. 36 can
be inserted into sockets 172 on the body side and also be easily
removed again from the socket 172. This way the spline 170 can be
replaced by another one when the flexible material 174 has just
been removed and is not stretched across said spline 170. FIG. 37
depicts the configuration from FIG. 36 with a different spline
170'. The splines 170 and 180 here consist of a plug base, with
which they can be inserted into the socket 172, and a shaping part.
Said shaping part can also consist of shaping flat metal sheets or
several rods that are connected with each other.
[0129] Many additional applications not shown here are feasible,
such as for example as roll-over protective structures or crash
zones that are moved out as a function of the vehicle speed and
fenders or wheel wells that follow the steering movement of the
front wheels. The decisive factor for being able to implement all
these applications, however, is the availability of a suitable
elastic material.
[0130] In FIG. 38, such an elastic material is shown, which
consists of a center layer 176, which consists of a fabric made of
PES fibers. The center layer 176 contains an upper and a lower
coating 178 and 180. The upper coating 178 creates the desired
appearance, which comes very close to that of a pained outer skin
metal sheet of a vehicle body. The upper coating 178 is connected
with the center layer 176 by means of an adhesive layer. The actual
upper coating 178 consists of polyurethane foam, which guarantees
the necessary water tightness, UV protection and other protection.
To the top surface 182 of the upper coating 178 a thin aliphatic
final layer is applied, which ensures the desired wear resistance
and aging stability. The lower coating 180 has the same structure
as the upper coating 178. However, to the lower coating 180 a
magnetic power is admixed so that the elastic material securely
rests against ferromagnetic components.
[0131] As can be seen well in FIG. 39, the center layer 176
consists of a fabric with evenly arranged stitches 184. Such
fabrics can be prepared without great efforts and short set-up
times.
[0132] Under load the elastic material behaves in accordance with
the power-expansion diagram shown in FIG. 40. It illustrates well
that the material can be expanded by almost 30% in the textile
structure before the fibers expand. In order to achieve spring-back
behavior possibly without hysteresis, the material was
pre-stretched so that the material has set possibly already before
its use. With such a material, firmness levels of up to 2000 N/5 cm
can be reached with a thickness of about 1.7 mm.
[0133] The foregoing disclosure has been set forth merely to
illustrate the invention and is not intended to be limiting. Since
modifications of the disclosed embodiments incorporating the spirit
and substance of the invention may occur to persons skilled in the
art, the invention should be construed to include everything within
the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereof.
* * * * *